“You find out who you are as a person, you find out who your friends are, you bond as a company on tour. Some of the best times of my life were on that stage. It’s an opportunity the kids [in the company] today deserve, to share that gift.”

Les Sereda joined Shumka in 1991, performing with the company in numerous productions including a leading role in Shumka’s Cinderella. After touring across North America, Les retired from the stage to found Blue Toque Productions and raise three aspiring Ukrainian dancers with his wife and Shumka alumnist Anna. Les continues to push the company creatively, producing 2018’s Mosquito’s Wedding and recently becoming Shumka’s Senior Creative Director. This fall, Shumka is proud to present his documentary “Dancing on Eggshells: The Making of Ancestors & Elders.”

Les’ lifelong commitment to advancing and elevating our art form is no small part of what makes Shumka great. Thank you, Les.